Horseshoe Bend is a stunning elopement location – the dramatic curves of the canyon and the breathtaking views have made it a bucket list location for countless couples! But, while I love the views, the truth is that this place has gotten busy, and over the years, I think it’s become a place that’s not exactly ideal for an intimate elopement ceremony. In this guide, we’ll talk about some alternatives to a Horseshoe Bend elopement, and some places to elope that give you sweeping views, but offer a slightly different (better) experience.
Why Choose a Not-Horseshoe-Bend Elopement?
If your heart is absolutely set on Horseshoe Bend for your wedding day, don’t let this guide discourage you! You can still have a great experience – it’s just about being prepared and being realistic about what to expect. If you’re anticipating exchanging vows on a cliff and being the only ones there, that is, unfortunately, not likely to happen. But, here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about tying the knot at Horseshoe Bend.
Crowds at Horseshoe Bend
This is the big one! Horseshoe Bend exploded in popularity a few years ago, and even at sunrise and sunset, there will be a lot of other people around. This can make it hard to get any privacy for your ceremony. You can’t really “claim” a spot for yourself – be prepared for people walking around you.
Guardrails at Horseshoe Bend
In 2018 (after Horseshoe Bend got super popular), guardrails were put up around the main viewing point the rim, for safety reasons. This means that you might not be able to get as many of those epic right-on-the-cliff shots! So if you’re looking at Horseshoe Bend elopement photos for inspiration, check when they were taken – because that shot may not be possible anymore.
You Can Still Take Photos at Horseshoe Bend!
If you really want to see Horseshoe Bend, you can also have your ceremony at a spot nearby (we’ll get to the alternative locations soon!), but go take some photos at Horseshoe Bend. That way, you can get some privacy for the actual ceremony, and head to Horseshoe Bend for some photos. Sunrise is going to be the best option when it comes to crowds, but you’re not likely to have the place to yourself! Some other tips for minimizing crowds a little include eloping on a weekday, and visiting in the off season. Off season is winter – December through February. It definitely gets pretty cold during the day, with temperatures in the 40s, but if you happen to be there while the desert gets its occasional dusting of snow, it can be a really unique experience.
Elopement Locations that Aren’t Horseshoe Bend
Now, let’s get into some elopement locations in Arizona that are good alternative options!
Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell
This beach is actually in Utah, just over the Arizona border. But, Lake Powell is a gorgeous destination that’s pretty close to Horseshoe Bend! Lone Rock Beach is a nice, less developed area where you can get down to the water, with a backdrop of towering sandstone cliffs. You can also camp there, turning your elopement into a multi day adventure!
You can also rent a boat (the Lake Powell Marina is one option for rentals) and take it out to explore deeper in the canyons and see more of Lake Powell.
Secret Slick Rock, Sedona
For those iconic red rock canyons and desert views, Sedona has some of the most incredible elopement locations! There’s the Cathedral Rock hike, which is a popular option, but since the point of this guide is getting away from super-crowded locations, Secret Slick Rock is an easier hike, and has breathtaking views without as much hustle and bustle.
Slot Canyons in Page
For stunning elopement locations that are near Horseshoe Bend, there are a lot of unique slot canyons around Page, Arizona. The most popular is Antelope Canyon, but unfortunately elopements are not allowed there – though it’s still a great spot to check out while you’re here! A lot of the slot canyons, like Waterhole Canyon, require a guide to explore them – this is for safety, and to protect the natural areas. A lot of them allow you to have an elopement ceremony in the canyon if you book a private tour. There are some other, more remote slot canyons nearby as well! If you want to guarantee privacy for your elopement, a private tour will be a great way to do that.
Snowbowl, Flagstaff
Flagstaff offers a little bit of contrast from the desert scenery, with some mountain views and greenery. Snowbowl is the ski resort on Humphreys Peak – the tallest mountain in Arizona! It’s a popular destination in the winter, but summer brings wildflowers and is a great time for some of the hiking trails. Aspen Corner is just off of Snowbowl Road, a few minutes from the ski resort – and the vibrant aspen trees create a gorgeous atmosphere for an intimate elopement in the forest. In the fall, it’s especially breathtaking, transforming into a golden wonderland!
Shoshone Point, Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park has tons of options for gorgeous elopement locations, including Shoshone Point. The view at Shoshone Point is somewhat similar to what you would see at Horseshoe Bend – you’ll have a panoramic view of the canyon, the creeks below you, and the mountains in the distance. Like Horseshoe Bend, you’ll be on top of a cliff, with the dramatic scenery below you!
Ready to Find Your Dream Elopement Location?
Your love story is unlike any other, and your wedding day should be the same! Finding your dream elopement location is one of the first steps in the process, and as an elopement photographer, part of my job is giving you a custom list of personalized locations that fit what you’re dreaming of – you tell me what’s important to you, and I find locations that fit the vision.
I’ll help you find spots that have the same jaw dropping beauty of Horseshoe Bend, but with fewer crowds! If you’re ready to elope, contact me to get started!
